LOCAL veterans are set to take part in the UK’s biggest indoor tattoo.
Taking place on 14th and 15th February, the Birmingham International Tattoo will celebrate military tradition in support of charitable causes.
It will feature performances, including massed marching bands, pipes and drums, field gun racing, dog displays and dance teams, before a grand finale featuring over 1,000 performers.
Local veterans who served in the North and South Staffordshire Regiments, RASC/RCT Royal Navy and RAF will be part of a Parade of Standards at the tattoo as well.
Among those attending will be Berni Wilkins, from Burntwood, who will be taking the Wreath of Respect, which is usually displayed at the Staffordshire Regiment Museum.
Berni said:
“The wreath was commissioned by an anonymous donor to commemorate the centenary of the start of World War One and to show appreciation for all affected by conflict, irrespective of race, creed or colour, whether they served or not, to promote remembrance, respect and reconciliation.
“It is made of nine steel poppies supported by a horseshoe which came from one of the horses which pulled the carriage bringing soil from Flanders Fields and accompanied the Unknown Warrior to Westminster Abbey.
“The horseshoe represents the part all animals played in conflict – not only horses, but pigeons, dogs cats and many more.
“It is a unique artefact which was designed to be held and used for people’s own personal reflection. Visitors to the tattoo will have the opportunity to hold the wreath and photograph it, as well as seeing a magnificent show.”
For more details on the event and to book tickets, visit bhamtattoo.com.